Mr Thomas, 44, announced today that his wife Gemma died in hospital last night.

Mr Thomas covers a football match for Sky Sports in May last year (Image: Getty)

He has asked fans to pray for Ethan (Image: Simon Thomas /Instagram)

He told how she fell ill with acute myloid leukaemia just three days before she died surrounded by family and friends.

In addition to Mr Thomas, she is survived by a son, Ethan, aged eight.

The former Blue Peter presenter wrote on Twitter: "Today I am crushed with indescribable pain. Just three days after falling ill with Acute Myloid Leukaemia, my dear wife Gemma passed away yesterday evening surrounded by her family and friends."

He added: "If you are a prayer - pray for my boy Ethan. 8yrs, precious and in bits. Thank you."

Fans have also flooded social media with heartfelt messages of support.

One user wrote: "So sorry to read this Simon. You and Ethan will be in my prayers. I pray that God will surround you both with his love and comfort at this terrible time."

Another added: "Absolutely awful Simon. Your wee man will be stronger than you can ever imagine. He’ll be as big a rock to you as you are to him. Be safe man."

And one posted: "I’m so, so sorry for your loss Simon. Heartbreaking news. Thinking of you and your family and sending prayers your way."